Dance Monkey Mania: Tones and I surprises local students with epic impromptu concert!

St Mary’s principal Peter Hughes was surprised to find himself playing host to Tones and I recently, when the popular artist performed an impromptu concert at the Young primary school.

The Australian singer, songwriter, and record producer is best known for her breakout single Dance Monkey, which reached number one in over 30 countries. Earlier this year, she also supported the Australian leg of Pink’s Summer Carnival tour.

“It was pretty cool – the kids loved it,” Peter said.

“They screamed, clapped, cried, all the emotions. I think it might be the highlight of their year.”

The school performance came about after the singer’s two scheduled concerts sold out in less than four minutes.

“A lot of kids couldn’t get to see her, and she said she felt bad about that,” Peter explained.

“I was just in class teaching one day, and my secretary came to the door and said ‘Tones and I wants to know if she can come and perform for the kids?’”

Peter didn’t realise the scope of the situation until he searched the artist’s name and recognised the tunes.

“I had no idea how big she was,” he exclaimed.

“It was just a phone call and then she rocked up with a guitarist and a keyboard player the next day.”

Peter said after a quick chat, the singer and the principal realised they had attended the same small primary school in Victoria.

“She was lovely and relaxed,” he said.

“Very down to earth and approachable. She sang three songs, had a chat, gave a few hugs, signed some autographs, and then they were off again.”

Tones and I performed Dance Monkey, Fly Away and A Cloudy Day for her eager audience.

“It was extremely generous of her to come not just to our school but to two others in Young as well,” Peter said.

“She must be under the pump to do events and recording and publicity. Getting away and having a break before performing a concert must be good, but squashing three schools in instead was a big commitment for her and her musicians. It was really terrific.”

Tones and I promised the students that due to the small town’s overwhelming response, she would bring her full tour to Young. Making good on the vow, she has announced a show on 1 March at the Showground, with pre-sale tickets available to local schools.